Advair Diskus
Generic Name: Salmeterol
What is Advair Diskus?
Advair Diskus contains two medicines, fluticasone propionate (Flovent) and salmeterol (Serevent). Fluticasone is an inhaled corticosteroid that decrease inflammation in the lungs, which can lead to asthma symptoms. Salmeterol is a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) used in patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To help relax the muscles around the airways in the lungs, helping to prevent symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath.What is the most important information I should know about Advair Diskus?
Because LABA medicines such as salmeterol may increase the risk of asthma-related death, you should only use Advair Diskus if your asthma is not adequately controlled on other medications or the severity of your asthma warrants treatment with two maintenance therapies.Advair Diskus does not relieve sudden symptoms. Always have your rescue inhaler medicine, such as albuterol, available to treat sudden symptoms of asthma.
Patients with COPD have a greater chance of developing pneumonia. Advair Diskus may increase your risk of pneumonia. Call your doctor if you experience any symptoms of pneumonia, which include an increase in mucus (sputum) production, change in mucus color, fever, chills, increased cough, or increased breathing problems.
Localized infections of the mouth are common in persons taking Advair. Therefore, it is important that you rinse your mouth after each inhalation. It is also important to follow the recommended instructions on how to properly inhale Advair to ensure its effectiveness.
Do not stop using Advair Diskus unless told to do so by your doctor; your symptoms may get worse.
Call you doctor if breathing problems worsen over time while taking Advair Diskus. You may need a different treatment.
Get emergency medical care if your breathing problems worsen quickly, or if your rescue inhaler medicine fails to relieve your breathing problems.
Who should not take Advair Diskus?
Do not use Advair Diskus to treat sudden symptoms of asthma or COPD.Do not use Advair Diskus if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, such as milk proteins.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Advair Diskus?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Advair Diskus, especially if you are taking ritonavir, an anti-HIV drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have allergies to other drugs or foods, diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure, immune system problems, liver problems, if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant and breastfeeding, or if you have seizures, a thyroid disorder, weak bones (osteoporosis), or you are exposed to chickenpox or measles.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults and children ≥12 years: The usual dosage is 1 inhalation twice a day (once in the morning and once in the evening, 12 hours apart).
How should I take Advair Diskus?
See the "Instructions for Using Advair Diskus" that came with your prescription for detailed information on how to properly use this medication.After each dose, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. Close the Advair Diskus by placing your thumb on the thumbgrip and slide it back towards you as far as it will go; it will click shut.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need additional advice.
What should I avoid while taking Advair Diskus?
Avoid using a spacer device with this medication. Do not breathe directly into the Advair Diskus or hold the device on a tilt while it is open and ready for inhalation.Do not use Advair more often than prescribed, and do not use other medicines that contain a LABA medication for any reason. Always have your rescue inhaler available to treat sudden symptoms.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Advair Diskus?
If Advair Diskus is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Advair Diskus with the following: beta-blockers, diuretics, ketoconazole, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, ritonavir, or tricyclic antidepressants.While you are taking Advair Diskus, do not use other medicines that contain a LABA. Other LABA medicines include Serevent Diskus (salmeterol xinafoate inhalation powder) or Foradil Aerolizer (formoterol fumarate inhalation powder).
What are the possible side effects of Advair Diskus?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: serious allergic reactions, increased blood pressure, fast and irregular heartbeat, chest pain, headache, tremor, nervousness, immune system effects and a greater chance of infections, lower bone mineral density, eye problems including glaucoma and cataracts, slowed growth in children, throat irritation, hoarseness and voice changes, fungal infection in the mouth and throat (thrush), pneumonia infections, cough, headache, nausea, vomiting
Can I receive Advair Diskus if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Advair Diskus during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Advair Diskus?
If you miss a dose of Advair Diskus, skip that dose. Take your next dose at your usual time. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Advair Diskus?
Store at room temperature in a dry place, away from heat and sunlight. Safely discard Advair Diskus 1 month after it is removed from the foil pouch or after the dose indicator reads "0," whichever comes first.
I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
